Make it a September to remember!
If you are a newbie to adoption , one of our Madison families graciously agreed to openly and honestly share her journey. She understands how important it is to educate those following behind her about all aspects of adoption, and not just the unicorns and rainbows. Her experience is eye opening, especially coming from a parent who has adopted three times prior, that attachment can still be a challenge .

Please check out their full blog,   here to read more!
Tuning Into Teens can be challenging, especially in the adoption world. Take heart! The National Quality Improvement Center (QIC) is working alongside the Adoption & Guardian Support and Preservation (AG) to increase communication and connection between parents and teens between 10-13 years of age in the state of New Jersey. Even Delaware families, or anyone close can attend if you are willing to travel. Here's what it looks like:

  • Sessions are statewide, mid-week, evenings, & in community locations
  • Small group sizes (no more than 12 parents)
  • Comfortable, warm and accepting environment
  • Other adoptive and kinship parents
  • Experienced, trained group leaders
  • Free, interactive and fun
  • Learning, sharing, and discussion over 7 sessions
  • A meal, mileage, and childcare compensation
  • The chance to be a part of something ground breaking

The last sessions for 2017 will be held in October. The sessions are available in Paterson, Englewood, Oakland, Parsippany, and Vineland. You can register to enroll directly with Arleen Jacoby , Project Director, or call 609-888-7463.
A reminder that the Brittany's Hope walk is right around the corner! Join the staff of Madison in Elizabethtown, PA on September 16th.
 
Compete in a scenic 5k to benefit orphaned children around the world. Not ready to race? Try their very leisurely Fun Walk around the same beautiful property. Free t-shirt and lunch for all!
 
MAA staff will have an info table full of goodies. Stop by and say hi! This is a fun, family event that you won’t want to miss!


Children who came home with their forever families in August!
A farewell from Jessica:

Jessica Harrison’s last day with Madison Adoption Associates was Tuesday, August 22 nd . She is embarking on a new adventure that is very close to her home, reducing her commute and allowing her to spend more time with her family. We are very excited for her and all the wonderful things to come! We leave you with a note from Jess.

Dear Families,
 
“For everything there is a season” is a well-known biblical quote that I can relate to at this time. For me, my “season” with Madison Adoption Associates has come to an end. For some of you, we’ve just met and already have such a good connection. For others, we’ve been on a lengthy journey together and parting ways will be bitter sweet since I won’t get to see your ending but know it will be a happy one. Please never lose hope for the child you dream about and so passionately pursue in your adoption. For the adoption process is a brief “season” in your life but with a lifetime of parenting, family, and memories ahead of you.
 
Over my four years with MAA, I’ve had the honor, and privilege of meeting and matching so many, many families with children. How satisfying it is to change the course of someone’s life for the better! The smiles of children with their forever families are etched in my memory to hold onto always.
 
What’s next for me? I’ll be stepping back to wear my previous career hat of an Activities Director for seniors in an assisted living close to home. I’ll be actively engaging seniors with Bingo, happy hour, arts & crafts, sittercise, and the like in my next job.  (After all, it was me who was MAA’s unofficial party planner!)
 
I am grateful to have known your family and be a part of your adoption story!       
 
Jessica
We kindly ask everyone to pray for those in Texas and Louisiana dealing with the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey. To all MAA families in that area, our hearts are with you.